Page 34 of Fated for Flames

She was strong.

And I’d make her stronger.

I’d make her feel safe again.

She flinched whenever someone got too close or touched her. She tried to conceal it, but I noticed it.

Each passing day, it was a little less pronounced. I was committed to equipping her with the means for her retribution.

Whoever caused her pain, I’d sworn they’d pay for it.

22

Evelyn

It was almost curfew on Saturday night when I found myself standing outside Lia’s room. She hadn’t been responding to my texts and declined any invitations to hang out.

Taking a deep breath, I summoned the courage to knock on the wooden door.

“Lia?” I called softly.

The door swung open, revealing Lia in her usual radiance. Ruby was there too.

Lia’s room was extravagant compared to mine, with a large sitting area and a kitchenette. I guessed that was what you got when your mom was the coven matriarch.

“We’re kinda busy,” Lia said flatly, her gaze drifting over my shoulder, avoiding mine.

“I just wanted to talk,” I replied.

She arched an eyebrow, her expression unreadable. “About?”

I hesitated, and then the words just tumbled out. “I miss you,” I admitted quietly. “We used to be inseparable, Lia. Did something happen? Did I do something wrong?”

A flicker of emotion crossed her eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it appeared, her gaze finally meeting mine—cold and unfriendly.

“Sorry, but like I said, now’s not a good time.”

Walking to me, she showed me the door before shutting it in my face.

Her gesture and cold demeanor stunned me.

How could I convince Lia not to turn against me if she already had?

23

Evelyn

Sunday brought with it another session with Lucien and Rafe.

Rafe’s calm demeanor was a soothing contrast to Chad’s high-energy approach. The angel studied my magic with furrowed brows and pursed lips. Apparently, there was an oddity in the binding of my magic that piqued his interest.

As Rafe studied the binding of my magic, I found myself caught in the serenity that radiated from him. His golden hair fell in loose waves, framing his thoughtful face and those turquoise eyes. His wings, a shimmering spectacle of celestial glow, were folded neatly behind him. It was easy to forget he was more than just a pretty face. Rafe was a healer, one of the best.

“Why don’t I ever see you at school?” I asked, breaking the silence.

Rafe’s gaze met mine. “I prefer to stay home,” he said. “Too many gawking faces.”

His words made sense. His ethereal beauty would certainly draw attention and curiosity from students and staff alike.

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